I absolutely agree! I would order Phoenix's calamari every time I'm in Chinatown, if I could. They give you a large serving (for an appetizer) and season the dish beautifully, with just enough pepper to make it interesting. It was crunchy and light on the grease as well.

My boyfriend and I will be dining at DeLaCosta on Friday. We've heard great things about the menu, especially re: the ceviche and the Xim Xim entree. What's the general Chowhound opinion on DeLaCosta? Any dishes you would recommend in particular?

Note: I have checked DeLaCosta's website and I have searched past discussions involving DeLaCosta, so the links aren't necessary. I'm looking for Chowhounds' personal recommendations. Thanks!

I would caution against a place like Frontera, only because the atmosphere is so hectic and the service is haphazard at best. From prior experience, I can say that it will not yield a very romantic experience. If you want to try a Rick Bayless restaurant, perhaps the best option would be Topolabambo.

Hm ... thanks for the suggestion. I guess we wanted to try something new, since we've already been to the Melting Pot, but perhaps sometimes it's best to stick with the restaurants with which we're familiar.

I definitely understand the hesitation; I worked at a huge chain restaurant awhile ago and it was awful during the holidays. This V-Day may turn me off the idea of going out on holidays for good! We'll see, though.

My boyfriend and I want to celebrate Valentine's Day somewhere unique. In the past few months, we've enjoyed restaurants such as Avec, Green Zebra, and Schwa. This year, we're looking for someplace particularly romantic, yet lacking in stuffiness. We were thinking of going out for fondue, but couldn't bring ourselves to go to the Melting Pot. Are there any exceptionally good fondue-specific restaurants in Chicago? Really, though, we're amenable to any cuisine. Thanks in advance for your suggestions!